Senior Technologist II at Kenya Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (Kenya-AIST)

Job purpose

The Senior Technologist will work closely with service providers during the installation and commissioning of laboratory equipment. The technologist will receive hands-on training on the use and maintenance and troubleshooting of laboratory of the equipment. Beyond installation, the Senior Technologist will also manage the Centre for Research Facilities, overseeing the day-to-day operations, upkeep, and optimization of lab resources. The officer will provide ongoing technical support, including training faculty and researchers on equipment use, implementing best practices, and ensuring smooth and efficient laboratory operations to advance the center’s research objectives.

Duties and responsibilities

• Collaborate with service providers during the installation and commissioning of all lab equipment;
• Receive training on machine operations during the installation phase;
• Provide ongoing technical support and maintenance for lab equipment post-installation;
• Maintain records of machine installations, maintenance schedules, and user manuals;
• Train teaching and research staff and students on the proper use of laboratory equipment;
• Participate in the planning, designing and development of Laboratory/Workshop teaching and research manuals.
• Coordinate the collection and preparation of teaching and research materials;
• Conduct analytical    work    in    specialized    fields;
• Maintain    and    manage inventory in    the    laboratories;    and
• Implement quality assurance standards.

Person Specification

For appointment to this grade a candidate must:

• Have a Bachelor’s Degree in any of the following fields: Mechanical Engineering, Electrical & Electronic Engineering or Mechatronic Engineering,
• Have at least six (6) years of work experience in a relevant industry and/or in the academia,
• Have knowledge of the mechanical, electrical, hydraulic and pneumatics systems of machines,
• Have First Aid and Occupational Health and Safety Training;
• Have experience in calibration, troubleshooting and maintenance of equipment,
• Experience in PLC programming will be an advantage,
• Experience in computer networking will be an added advantage, and
• Be registered with the relevant professional body and in good standing.